Welcome to Dig Edits, a Portland-based editing service for publishers and authors. Whether you have an idea that needs development, a project that needs consistency, or a manuscript that needs polishing, we are here to help you reach that goal.
Dig Edits came to fruition in 2019. Our name is from Seamus Heaney’s poem, “Digging”: “Between my finger and my thumb / The squat pen rests. / I’ll dig with it.” We believe that words are your most powerful tool and, like any tool, they’re more powerful when they’re sharpened.
Our services include proofreading, copy editing, developmental editing, and book coaching. We work with manuscripts from authors who are self-publishing, those who are pursuing traditional publishing, and publishers.
We love working with storytellers to help create unique and dynamic stories by ensuring each editing project is thoughtfully and carefully completed. Our goal is to help every writer we work with bring out their very best piece.
We offer copyediting, proofreading, developmental editing, and book coaching for clients. Not sure what kind of editing you’re looking for? Contact us to see if we’re the right fit for your project. We offer free sample edits to evaluate the level of editing needed before creating an estimate. Let’s talk about how we can help you reach your goals.
Proofreading generally involves checking for surface-level errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting that may have been introduced during the final design or revision process. It does not typically involve more significant changes to the text such as rewriting sentences or addressing broader issues with the story or content.
Developmental editing is typically the first stage of editing after completing a manuscript, and it can involve one to three rounds of editing. The focus of developmental editing is on big-picture issues such as inconsistencies in plot, tone, structure, and characters. Unlike copy editing, it typically does not involve making corrections directly to the manuscript itself. Instead, a developmental editor may provide feedback in the form of an editorial note that highlights specific areas that need improvement or revision.
Copy editing typically involves checking for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation, as well as ensuring adherence to a particular style guide or publisher's house style. In some cases, it may also involve fact-checking. It's important to note that copy editing is generally the final stage of editing before the book is laid out and designed for publication, and as such, it's not recommended for authors to make significant changes to the text after the copy editing is complete.
Book coaching is a service that provides one-on-one support and guidance to help authors develop and complete a book manuscript. A book coach typically works with authors at various stages of the writing process, from conceptualizing the book to revising and finalizing the manuscript. Book coaching can encompass a range of services, including brainstorming and outlining, help with structure and pacing, feedback on writing style and tone, and guidance on publishing and marketing the finished book. The goal of book coaching is to help authors bring their vision to life by providing personalized support, motivation, and expertise throughout the writing and publishing process.
Tell us a little about yourself and your project using the form below.
Hi! My name is Kristin Stein and I am a professional book editor and owner of Dig Edits. I’ve always loved reading and wrote ghost stories as a child, effectively scaring myself in the process. As I grew and developed in my writing, I learned that while I loved creating, I also loved helping others create. I believe we can all be writers, but like any career it takes persistence and hard work. Octavia Butler said it best:
“First forget inspiration. Habit is more dependable. Habit will sustain you whether you’re inspired or not. Habit will help you finish and polish your stories. Inspiration won’t. Habit is persistence in practice.”
For ten years, I’ve worked in accounting roles before shifting to editing after obtaining my BA in creative writing at Pacific University and my certificate in editing at the University of Washington. While editing and accounting may seem like separate worlds, both of them rely on being very detail-oriented, accurate, and able to research quickly and efficiently. I credit my years in accounting for helping me become the editor I am today.
Out of the office, you can find me in the garden or wandering through the woods. I currently live in the Willamette Valley with my husband, dogs, and chickens and I spend a lot of time thinking about Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier.
